The Houston Astros’ first season with Joe Espada at the helm came to an early end with a first-round exit against the Detroit Tigers. For a team that has become almost synonymous with the ALCS in recent years, this marks a significant shift. The Astros are now at a pivotal point as an organization, and the team could undergo major changes next season.
General Manager Dana Brown has been quite open about plans to reduce payroll and “balance” the team’s financial obligations. With lucrative contracts already in place for stars like Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez, Houston seems ready to pull back on big spending — at least until Kyle Tucker’s contract is up next year, when he’s likely to secure a hefty extension.
This shift raises questions about the futures of key players like Alex Bregman and Justin Verlander, and it suggests the Astros may not be as aggressive in the market as they have been in the past. Just last offseason, the team spent $95 million on a reliever, but such large expenditures seem less likely this time around.
While the Astros are still built to compete, this strategic change is somewhat surprising. It’s no coincidence that after their first early playoff exit in nearly a decade, the organization appears to be reevaluating its approach. Anyone expecting a straightforward offseason may be in for a surprise, as significant changes could reshape the Astros as they aim for a World Series run in 2025.
Here are a few key players to watch as Houston navigates its offseason decisions.
3. RF Anthony Santander
It’s reasonable to be skeptical about Houston’s willingness to spend big in free agency, and Anthony Santander is likely to command a substantial payday. The Baltimore Orioles veteran just posted the best season of his career, slashing .235/.308/.506 with 44 home runs and 102 RBIs, right as he’s due for a new contract.
The question is whether Santander can sustain this level of production. While his power numbers have been trending up for a couple of years, this breakout season stands out as an outlier compared to the rest of his career. However, at 29, he likely still has plenty left in the tank. Even if his home run numbers dip in 2025, his batting average this season was his lowest since 2018, suggesting there’s room for improvement or at least stabilization in other areas of his game.
The Astros have an immediate need for outfield depth, especially with uncertainty around Jason Heyward’s future and performance. Santander would be a reliable addition alongside Kyle Tucker, who could shift to left field. Though not a Gold Glove defender, Santander can hold his own in a corner outfield spot while significantly boosting Houston’s offensive firepower.
Pairing Yordan Alvarez and Anthony Santander in the middle of the lineup would be a nightmare for opposing pitchers. While Houston may ultimately get outbid, especially in a year when they’re pulling back on spending, Santander is unlikely to reach the top tier of free agent deals. In previous years, the Astros would have been a natural fit for this kind of mid-level star due to their history of big spending.
2. 1B Paul Goldschmidt
The Astros spent much of the season searching for a reliable first baseman, but never quite found the right fit. With room for an upgrade, few free agents bring the pedigree of Paul Goldschmidt, who isn’t expected to re-sign with the forward-focused St. Louis Cardinals.
Just a couple of years ago, Goldschmidt was the National League MVP and one of the most feared hitters in baseball. However, at 37, his decline has become evident. This past season, he slashed .245/.302/.414 with 22 home runs and 65 RBIs — respectable numbers, but a far cry from his peak production.
Despite this, Goldschmidt finished the season stronger than he started, and his overall track record is hard to ignore. Along with his MVP, he’s a four-time Gold Glove winner and a seven-time All-Star. Even at this stage of his career, his ability to hit the ball hard remains intact, as he finished in the 92nd percentile for hard-hit rate (49.6%).
For Houston, Goldschmidt represents a perfect balance between undeniable talent and affordability. His age makes him more of a short-term option — likely a one-year rental — but his bat could still make a significant impact, especially in a lineup filled with explosive hitters.
With Alex Bregman potentially leaving in free agency, Houston will need more power to maintain their offensive strength, and Goldschmidt is a name worth keeping an eye on.
1. SP Blake Snell
Blake Snell was the most dominant pitcher in baseball after the All-Star break. In his final 10 starts, he posted a 5-0 record with a 1.44 ERA, allowing opposing hitters to bat just .130 while racking up 84 strikeouts in 56.1 innings. His incredible stretch included his first career complete game, a no-hitter on August 2 against the Reds.
This late-season surge quickly erased any lingering concerns over Snell’s rough start. After waiting until spring training to sign with the San Francisco Giants, he struggled with injuries and rust early on. Snell has always been known for his second-half dominance, but the disparity in 2024 was especially stark.
That said, if Snell finishes the season this strong, teams will overlook a slow start. The 2023 NL Cy Young winner remains one of the most dominant pitchers in the league when he’s at his best. While the Astros might bump up against their payroll limitations, adding Snell would unquestionably elevate an already formidable rotation.
With both Yusei Kikuchi and Justin Verlander set to hit free agency, there will be openings in Houston’s starting rotation. A trio of Snell, Framber Valdez, and Hunter Brown could be one of the most imposing in the American League. Solidifying their pitching staff is a surefire way to keep Houston in contention, and Snell’s presence could propel the Astros right back into the World Series conversation next season.
